Kumlong Ward players and officials celebrate after lifting the 4th Mokokchung Town Inter-Ward Volleyball Tournament 2025 trophy at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex, Mokokchung, on October 9. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Mokokchung | October 10
Kumlong Ward narrowly defeated Mongsenbai Ward in a thrilling five-set final to lift the 4th Mokokchung Town Inter-Ward Volleyball Tournament 2025, organised by the Kumlong Sporting Association under the aegis of the Mokokchung District Volleyball Association (MDVA), at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex, Mokokchung, on Thursday evening.
The championship clash proved to be a closely contested battle, keeping spectators on edge throughout all five sets. Kumlong took the opening set 25–20, displaying superior individual skill, while Mongsenbai countered with coordinated team play to claim the second set 25–19.
The third set saw both teams tied at several points before Kumlong surged ahead to win 25–20. Mongsenbai refused to back down, leveling the match again by taking the fourth set 25–23 after a tense exchange that was deadlocked even at the 23rd point.
In the deciding fifth set, Kumlong capitalized on Mongsenbai’s unforced errors to take an early lead. Although Mongsenbai fought back to level the scores at 15–15, Kumlong held their nerve to claim two consecutive points and seal the championship—winning the decider 17–15 and the tournament for the second time, having previously lifted the title in 2023.
This year’s edition, held under the theme “Forging Champions,” featured participation from five wards—Kichutip, Penli, Mongsenbai, Kumlong, and Artang.
Individual awards were presented to:
• Best Setter: Aongsen (Kumlong)
• Best Spiker: Imtirenba (Kumlong)
• Player of the Tournament: Bendangmeren (Mongsenbai)
Kumlong Ward received a cash prize of ₹50,000, while runners-up Mongsenbai Ward took home ₹30,000, along with trophies and certificates.
The prizes were handed over by Er. Chutsusie Thowachu, Executive Engineer, Electrical Division, Mokokchung, who graced the closing ceremony as the Guest of Honour.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Imlinichet Imchen, Convener of the Organizing Committee, announced that the tournament would henceforth be held biennially, with the next edition scheduled for 2027.
